Oeillet France by Coty c1906

When Coty launched "Oeillet France" in 1906, it was a time of elegance and refinement, marked by the transition from the Victorian to the Edwardian era. The perfume industry was flourishing, with new scents being crafted to appeal to the refined tastes of the upper class.

"Carnation," or "Oeillet" in French, was a popular floral note during this period and held significant symbolism. In the language of flowers, which was widely used during the Victorian and Edwardian eras to convey emotions and messages, the carnation had various meanings. It was often associated with love, fascination, and distinction. Different colors of carnations conveyed different sentiments; for example, red carnations symbolized deep love and admiration, while pink carnations were associated with gratitude and affection.

The Chateau Collection by Coty c1986

In 1986, Coty launched The Chateau Collection, a special set reintroducing three classic fragrances that had faded from the public eye: La Rose Jacqueminot, Chypre, and Muse (rebranded as Les Muses). These scents, which once captivated earlier generations, were meticulously updated to cater to the tastes of contemporary women. Coty sought to balance nostalgia with modern sensibilities, aiming to evoke the timeless essence of these perfumes while ensuring they resonated with the preferences of the 1986 woman.

Coty Gains Publicity Through Theatrical Display

The American Perfumer and Essential Oil Review, 1927:

 "Coty Gains Publicity Through Theatrical Display - A particularly novel and effective demonstration of perfumery preparations has been carried out at Dickins & Jones, the largest London department store, by Coty (England), Ltd. The most successful revue of the year in London is Charles B. Cochran's 1926 Revue at the London Pavilion. One of the scenes in it is entitled 'Les Aromes de Coty' and features the various Coty preparations.

Mlle, Spinelly, the French leading lady of the revue, appears in this scene as Parfum Paris, Other actresses represent La Jacinthe, L'Or La Violette, La Rose Jacqueminot, L'Origan, L'Emeraude and Ambre Antique. 

All of these figures were reproduced in a remarkable window display at Dickins & Jones. Each figure stood in a gold frame with a background of black velvet, against which the wonderful design and coloring of the dresses was shown most effectively. In the perfumery department of Dickins & Jones there was an equally attractive display, with a large powder box with a 'living' puff standing just opposite an important entrance. Throughout the whole of the display the Puff distributed to the public little sachets, and also sprayed them with perfume. 

The display lasted for ten days and on one afternoon Mlle. Spinelly devoted her entire time to it, autographing all specialties that were purchased during that time." 

Debussy's Plus que Lente was performed.

Dulce Vanilla by Coty c1999

Vanilla-based perfumes have maintained a timeless popularity in the fragrance world for several reasons. Firstly, vanilla is inherently comforting and familiar, evoking feelings of warmth and sweetness. Its scent is often associated with indulgence and luxury, reminiscent of homemade desserts and cozy environments. Additionally, vanilla possesses a versatile nature that complements a wide range of other fragrance notes, allowing perfumers to create complex and enticing scent compositions.

The science behind the appeal of vanilla in perfumery lies in its molecular structure and olfactory characteristics. Vanilla contains compounds such as vanillin, which contribute to its distinctive aroma. Vanillin is a phenolic aldehyde that emits a rich, sweet scent with creamy undertones. This compound interacts with olfactory receptors in the nose, triggering positive sensory responses associated with pleasure and satisfaction.

Historically, vanilla has been a key ingredient in perfumery for centuries. Its popularity surged in the 20th century with the introduction of iconic vanilla-based fragrances such as Vanilla Fields by Coty, launched in 1993, and Vanilla Musk in 1994. These fragrances helped popularize the use of vanilla as a dominant note in perfumes and paved the way for subsequent creations.

Dulce Vanilla represents a contemporary take on vanilla-centric perfumery, offering a darker and more indulgent interpretation of the classic scent. Inspired by dulce de leche, a caramelized milk confection popular in Latin America, this fragrance combines the sweetness of caramel with the creamy richness of vanilla. Notes of nutmeg add a hint of spice, while buttercream enhances the decadent quality of the composition. White lily and gardenia contribute floral accents, balancing the sweetness with a touch of freshness.

Overall, vanilla-based perfumes continue to captivate fragrance enthusiasts due to their comforting and versatile nature, making them a perennial favorite in the world of scent.

Ghost Myst by Coty c1995

Ghost Myst by Coty was launched in 1995, a time when the fragrance industry was witnessing a shift towards lighter, fresher scents. This trend was exemplified by perfumes such as Dolce & Gabbana's Light Blue and Issey Miyake's signature scent.

Dolce & Gabbana's Light Blue, introduced in 2001, captured the essence of the Mediterranean with its breezy, citrusy notes, appealing to those seeking a lighter and more uplifting fragrance. Issey Miyake's iconic scent, launched in 1992, also embraced a minimalist approach with its clean, aquatic aroma, reflecting the trend towards simplicity and purity in fragrances.

During the mid-1990s, there was a growing emphasis on inner beauty, tranquility, and enlightenment, reflected in the popularity of aromatherapy and holistic wellness practices. Ghost Myst by Coty tapped into this trend by positioning itself as more than just a fragrance but as a celebration of a woman's inner beauty. The marketing language emphasizes the intangible qualities of the scent, suggesting that it affirms and validates one's inner self.

The description of Ghost Myst as "light" and "airy," veiled in gossamer, aligns with the trend towards lighter fragrances while also evoking a sense of ethereal beauty and tranquility. This fragrance likely appealed to consumers who sought not only to smell good but also to experience a sense of inner peace and enlightenment through their scent choices. Overall, Ghost Myst by Coty emerged during a time when fragrances were becoming more than just a cosmetic accessory but also a means of self-expression and personal affirmation.

Coty Amphora Pottery Perfume Bottles

The 1940 release of Coty's "Informal Fragrances" collection is a fascinating piece of perfumery history. By introducing their most popular scents in Eau de Toilette concentrations, Coty made their luxurious fragrances more accessible to a wider audience. The decision to house these fragrances in color-coordinated amphora-shaped stoneware bottles added an extra layer of elegance and distinctiveness to the collection.

Here is a summary of the fragrances and their corresponding bottle colors:

• Emeraude: Light Green
• Chypre: Lighter Green
• L'Aimant: Pink
• L'Origan: Brown
• Paris: Blue

These amphora bottles not only represented the essence of each fragrance but also made them visually appealing and collectible. This innovative packaging approach, coupled with the fragrances' popularity, likely contributed to the success and lasting legacy of Coty's "Informal Fragrances."

The Coty "Informal Fragrances" collection, introduced in 1940, featured beautifully designed amphora bottles crafted by the Zanesville Stoneware Company of Ohio. Each bottle, measuring 5.5 inches at the lip of the spout, was capable of holding five ounces of Eau de Toilette. The bottles were designed to be visually appealing and practical, making the luxurious fragrances more accessible to a broader audience.

These amphora-shaped stoneware bottles were color-coordinated to match the fragrances they contained. Emeraude was housed in a light green bottle, Chypre in a lighter green, L'Aimant in pink, L'Origan in brown, and Paris in blue. Each bottle was sealed with a unique bronze-colored metal capped cork, adding an extra touch of elegance to the design.

Some of the bottles still retain their original labels on their bellies and bases. The bottom label reads:

"Coty New York Paris Informal fragrance. Use this lovely Eau de Toilette as lavishly as you choose. A generous sprinkle in your bath--a dash in your hand basin--in your final shampoo rinse--on your lingerie or 'kerchief'. Impart a touch of fragrance to your accessories or your furs. Take it with you to 'freshen up' while traveling. Cont. 5 oz. Compounded in U.S.A."

Coty suggested various ways to use these fragrances, emphasizing their versatility. They recommended sprinkling the Eau de Toilette in a bath, adding a dash to a hand basin, using it in a final shampoo rinse, or applying it to lingerie or handkerchiefs. The fragrance could also be used to impart a pleasant scent to accessories or furs, and the bottle could be taken along for freshening up while traveling.

The Coty "Informal Fragrances" amphora bottles are not only a testament to the brand's commitment to quality and elegance but also a reflection of a time when fragrance was an integral part of daily life. These collectible items continue to be cherished by fragrance enthusiasts and vintage collectors for their unique design and historical significance.

Nuance by Coty c1975

Nuance perfume by Coty was launched in 1975, a time when there was a notable cultural shift towards a return to innocence, romance, and femininity. This period followed the turbulent and rebellious 1960s and early 1970s, which were characterized by bold, experimental styles and a push for social change. By the mid-1970s, there was a movement towards softer, more refined expressions of beauty and lifestyle.

In 1975, the fashion and beauty industries were embracing a more romantic and feminine aesthetic. This was evident in the flowing dresses, delicate fabrics, and the resurgence of natural beauty ideals. Women sought products that would enhance their femininity in a subtle and sophisticated manner.

Coty's Cordon Colognes

Coty's Cordon Colognes were very popular in pre-revolution era Russia.

Tourbillon by Coty c1955

Tourbillon by Coty: launched in 1955. Tourbillon was sold in Canada and Brazil.

L'Origan Gift Sets 1941

 Coty perfume gifts from a 1941 catalog:

La Violette Pourpre by Coty c1906

La Violette Pourpre by Coty, launched in 1906, epitomizes the essence of its time period in several ways. Firstly, the early 20th century was characterized by a flourishing of art, culture, and fashion, especially in Europe. This period saw the emergence of Art Nouveau, a style characterized by flowing lines, organic shapes, and motifs inspired by nature. Perfume, being intimately linked with luxury and fashion, reflected these artistic trends.

François Coty, the creator of La Violette Pourpre, was a pivotal figure in the perfume industry during this era. His innovative approach to fragrance production, which emphasized the use of synthetic materials to create new scents, revolutionized the perfume industry and paved the way for modern perfumery techniques.

The choice of purple violet as the central theme of La Violette Pourpre is significant. In the Language of Flowers, a Victorian-era code used to convey sentiments through floral arrangements, the violet symbolizes faithfulness and loyalty, making it an apt choice for a perfume associated with the sentiment "I'll always be true." This symbolism resonated deeply with the values and ideals of the time, particularly in the context of romantic relationships and courtship rituals.

 

Coty Perfumes in "Carnival" Presentations 1941 Ad

 

Including the Ferris Wheel, Sleigh and Weathervane Presentations

The Ferris Wheel: has five Louvre flacons of Coty perfumes in presentation. Fragrances as exhilarating and adventuresome as one's first ride in a Ferris Wheel. Revolving wheel mounted on graceful supports of heavy gold stamped plastic. featuring: Chypre, L'Origan, L'Aimant, Paris and Emeraude perfumes.

Weathervane: A spin of the arrow chooses one of the four world famous Coty Perfumes. A charming selection of fragrances for moods as variable as the four winds. Mounted on revolving "rose des vents" base. Plastic capped tapered flacons containing L'Aimant, L'Origan, Paris and Emeraude perfumes.

Sleigh: Miniature of a continental cutter in colored plastic with gold stamping. Adorned with tiny sleighbells. Contains glass stoppered Louvre flacons of L'Aimant and L'Origan perfume.

Coty Counter at Selfridges c1920s

 This antique photograph documents a Coty beauty counter in Selfridge's department store. I have added color to make it more interesting. We see two of the beauty advisors accompanied by a Coty representative wearing a very unusual, but appropriate dress: her skirt has circles which feature the powder puff design shown on the Air Spun powder boxes and the Coty name is written across her bust.

Inside the case and atop it are various perfumes, talcum powder bottles, powder boxes, and compacts.

This is a remarkable piece of history showing how the Coty products were displayed as well as the advertising signs which are framed with actual French flags.

Lilas Pourpre by Coty c1911

In 1911, the renowned perfumer François Coty unveiled the exquisite fragrance Le Lilas Pourpre.

The Romanov Grand Duchesses had a particular fondness for the floral scents crafted by the French house of Coty. Among them, Anastasia was captivated by the delicate notes of La Violette Pourpre, while Olga cherished the elegant aroma of La Rose Jacqueminot. Tatiana had a penchant for the exotic scent of Jasmin de Corse, and Maria's favorite was the enchanting Le Lilas Pourpre. These fragrances became a signature part of their refined and sophisticated personas, highlighting their individual preferences and styles.

Coty Perfume Gift Sets Pour L'Occasion 1938 Advertisement

Coty Perfume Gift Sets "Pour L'Occasion" 1938 Advertisement.